Purixan Coupons & Discount Card – Guaranteed Prices from $422.71

This document outlines crucial safety information regarding the use of mercaptopurine. It is essential for patients and healthcare providers to thoroughly review these warnings to ensure safe usage.

• Blood Cell Suppression: Mercaptopurine can lower the production of blood cells by the bone marrow, which may lead to anemia, increased infection risk, and bleeding due to reduced red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, respectively. The risk of these conditions may increase if you are also taking allopurinol, mesalamine, or similar bone marrow-suppressing drugs.

• Liver Damage: This medication may cause liver damage, potentially resulting in severe and life-threatening conditions. Symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, appetite loss, diarrhea, or abdominal bloating should be promptly reported to a healthcare provider. Regular blood tests are recommended to monitor liver health. The risk is heightened with higher doses, concurrent use of other liver-affecting medications, or pre-existing liver disease.

• Cancer Risk: Use of mercaptopurine can increase the likelihood of developing new cancers, including blood and skin cancers. This risk is associated with the degree and duration of immune system suppression. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider if you are undergoing treatment with immune-suppressing medications.

• Pregnancy Risks: Mercaptopurine may harm an unborn child, with reported cases of miscarriage and stillbirth when taken during the first trimester. It is advised that individuals capable of having children use effective birth control during treatment and continue for three months after stopping the medication for men, and six months for women. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you or your partner becomes pregnant while taking mercaptopurine.

In case of overdose or any adverse reactions, seek emergency medical attention promptly. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments to any treatment plan.

When taking this medication, you might experience some common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and a general feeling of discomfort. These are typically mild and may subside over time. Temporary hair loss and a rash may also occur. If these effects persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

It's important to be aware of more serious side effects. This medication can cause low blood cell counts, leading to symptoms like unusual tiredness, pale skin, and easy bruising or bleeding. You might also experience frequent infections, indicated by a persistent sore throat, fever, or chills. Additionally, symptoms of liver problems like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and vomiting require immediate medical attention.

In rare cases, there is an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly in younger individuals or those with bowel diseases. Watch for symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or unusual skin changes. An allergic reaction to this medication, though rare, can be serious. Seek help right away if you notice a rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, dizziness, or trouble breathing.

While this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, it's crucial to monitor your health and report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Your provider will weigh the benefits of the medication against these risks and provide guidance tailored to your situation.

Mercaptopurine can interact with various medications and supplements, and it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about everything you are currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Here are some key interactions to be aware of:

1. Avoid Combining with Mercaptopurine:

   • You should not use mercaptopurine with febuxostat or medications containing azathioprine, as they are very similar. This can increase the risk of adverse effects.

2. Vaccines:

   • Live vaccines such as the Measles, Mumps, Rotavirus, Rubella, Varicella, and Zoster vaccines are not recommended while taking mercaptopurine. Your doctor may choose different treatment options to avoid interactions.

3. Use with Caution:

   • Some medications, like allopurinol, doxorubicin, and various ACE inhibitors (such as enalapril and lisinopril), should be used cautiously with mercaptopurine. If both are necessary, your doctor might adjust the dosage or frequency.

4. Increased Side Effects:

   • Combining mercaptopurine with drugs like cyclosporine or methotrexate could heighten the risk of side effects. However, this combination might be required for your treatment plan, in which case careful monitoring and dosage adjustments will be managed by your healthcare provider.

Additionally, mercaptopurine may interfere with certain lab tests, such as uric acid levels, potentially leading to incorrect results. Make sure to inform all healthcare professionals and lab personnel that you are using this medication. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.